Before heading off to Taxi Violence’s show at Puma Social Club in Braamfontein a few weeks ago I had the privilege to have a quick chat with Rian Zietsman (the band’s lead guitarist) via e-mail. This is what he had to say:

What are you currently working on?

We’ve been working on a kick ass live set that incorporates a lot of new songs as well as familiar favourites. It’s quite juggling act to get that many songs into a limited time.

What are your thoughts about the current state of South African music?

I tend to not think about it too much. There are positives and negatives. It’s a bit disappointing that MK is no longer on air, but it’s not the end of the world. The scene goes through ups and downs and trying to figure out in which part of the cycle you are can be confusing. So we just stay positive.

When it comes to performing live. Which city is your favorite? Which venue is your favorite and which festival is your favorite?

Festival: Up The Creek, City: Pretoria or Cape Town, Venue: Live The Venue in Durban

What is the most hilarious thing that’s happened while you have been performing live?

George sometimes forgets his lyrics and then makes up stuff on the spot. I don’t know if the audience ever picks up on what he says, but it’s often very funny stuff.

What artist or album currently on rotation in your CD Player / on your iPod?

New Queens of the Stone Age album, Like Clockwork…

If you could define music in one word, what would that word be?

Everything

Which international acts do you want to come to SA and why?

AC/DC, because they are the most rocking band. Ever.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Rian for taking time to answer these questions. Make sure that you catch Taxi Violence at one of their shows in a city near you. They are one of the best live acts in South Africa, so you won’t be disappointed.